AN East-West swimming divide has surfaced for under-16s across Cheshire.

It has been revealed by the Labour recreation spokeswoman on Cheshire West and Chester Borough Council, Cllr Angela Claydon (Grange and Rossmore).

“All children under 16 in Cheshire East are receiving free swimming,” said Cllr Claydon.

“The new Tory council in Cheshire West and Chester refused to apply for the Government funding, which would give free swimming to all under-16s every day, as they said it would cost the council too much.”

She added: “Trying to cover their meanness, they are now offering a paltry one or two hours a week free to children during the school holiday period. I think the Tories have missed a trick here.

“I visited two pools and they were both far from full. I think it is a disgrace that the council is not offering its children this opportunity. All children need to learn to swim and to use water skills, as this could save their life in the future.”

Cllr Richard Short (Con, Overleigh), her opposite number on the ruling Tory executive, believes Cheshire West and Chester’s own initiatives for under-16s “are more effective and good value for money than the alternative scheme we rejected”.

“They also reach those children and young people who may have been reluctant to take up swimming,” he said.

“Cheshire West and Chester Council is undertaking a wide-ranging review of all leisure facilities so that we are well positioned for the future. This may well provide greater opportunity both for swimming and sport initiatives.”

All under-16s in Cheshire West and Chester are entitled to free swimming for two hours a week during school holidays, bar the Christmas period, at the six council-owned pools.

These are the EPIC in Ellesmere Port, Neston, the Northgate Arena in Chester, Christleton, Hartford Moss Farm leisure complex and the new swimming facilities at the Lifestyle Centre in Winsford.